10 October 2026
Cloudy wish showers increasing this afternoon, mainly inland where some may be heavy and thundery. Northeasterlies developing this morning.
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1 / 47Lewis Pass Scenic Reserve
Lewis Tops Track
Climb to the open tops with superb views and picturesque tarns.
Distance
2.6 km
Walking time
1 hr 30 mins one way
Difficulty
Advanced
Dogs
Not allowed
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Buller forecast
Issued 10 Oct 2026, 4:55 pm
11 October 2026
Showers, possibly heavy, easing in the afternoon, clearing early evening. Northerlies, turning westerly in the afternoon, easing in the evening.
12 October 2026
Mainly fine, rain at night. Northwesterlies developing for a time in the afternoon.
13 October 2026
Occasional rain. Light winds.
14 October 2026
Rain with heavy falls, easing in the evening. Northerlies, dying out in the morning.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Lewis Tops Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Lewis Tops Track
This track starts opposite the St James carpark. The initial climb is through attractive beech forest, with a few clearings offering scenic views early on in the walk. It takes about an hour to get above the bushline, and from there there are views in all directions for the rest of the walk. The route is marked with poles at the start, but once they end, the terrain is mostly flat, allowing you to walk freely for as far as you like. We recommend continuing at least as far as the tarns.
Essential information for Lewis Tops Track
The track can be muddy at the start. It is exposed and can be very cold if windy, so take warm layers. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly on the tops. In winter expect snow and only go if you are an experienced winter tramper.
Getting there for Lewis Tops Track
Access the track from Lewis Pass on SH7. Use this location on Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel
Dog access for Lewis Tops Track
No dogs.
Before you walk Lewis Tops Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.